what do we do when the sun isn't shining in hood river?

Head east.

Ben and I were looking for sun and an adventure. We packed a picnic and drove east. Our first stop, Wishram, to take a look at the historic locomotive...

and this horse we found at the back of an antique store.

From there we headed to Goldendale. On the way we stopped at this little house on the prairie.





We went inside to explore.

Here's a beautiful view from the kitchen window...

and the backyard.

After exploring the prairie we continued on to Goldendale. We explored the town and visited the observatory. We were able to see real time images of the sun from the telescope housed in the building below. We plan to return soon for an evening show.

We ended the day with a stop at The Dalles and checked out this new waterfront development.

what am I thankful for?

A dog that's feeling better...

and a husband that uprooted a tree stump.

Going, going,

gone.

Thanks for your help James.

Thanks to Abby for helping me cook our progressive Thanksgiving meal.

what are parents naming their children these days?

Maverick, Raine, Grayson, Mason, Diesel, Corbett, Wyatt....

After recently receiving my Oregon Teaching License, I started substitute teaching. There's not a Jennifer or Michael on any class roster I've come across.

who deserves a special thanks?

Skate Night, Ben's mom, my parents & Khawer.
Skate Night is Peter's band. Peter works with Ben and volunteered to play at his party. Their band was wonderful. Look for them soon at a venue near you.
Ben's mom and Ben's friend Khawer flew from Maryland for the big celebration. My parents drove from California to attend. We enjoyed celebrating with everyone over the long weekend.
Even though the weather was forecast to be cold and rainy, Tuesday was beautiful and sunny. We spent the day at Maryhill Museum....

finishing it off with a trip to Horsethief Butte where we watched the sun set on Mount Hood.
Thanks everyone!

what have ben and I been up to lately?

Celebrating Ben's 40th birthday!
Even though Ben's birthday was yesterday, we celebrated Saturday night with a party at Solstice Cafe in Bingen. Abby, my sister, took this amazing photo of Ben making a wish. Check out her online shop and if you're a local, her trunk show on Saturday.